CONCEPT:

Skanda, Kartikeya, Guha are among numerous names for Lord Muruga (younger son of Lord Shiva/younger brother of Lord Ganesha).

Popularly known as a “Tamil Deity” (South India) not so well known in North India.

Hindus have a BILLION names for God. We ARE NOT IDOL WORSHIPPERS!
Multiple deities are manifestations of the ONE formless, genderless, all-encompassing DIVINE.

In Islam there are 99 names for “Allah” among them AL-GHAFFAR (the forgiver) AR-RAHIM (the merciful) AL-‘AFUW (the pardoner) AT-TAWWAB (the acceptor of repentance) etc.

Lord Skanda was born to slay the demon Surapadman, who repented asked for forgiveness. The compassionate Lord made him into his peacock mount and rooster on his flag or “kodi” in Tamil. (peacock pattern in the back & silver flag)

God is ever-loving, merciful, forgives those who repent/renounce/admit their egos/mistakes.

The “Vel” or spear is Goddess Parvati (Muruga’s mother and the manifestation of divine energy) represents, “Victory” written in Arabic, red “bindi” forms the letter of “Nuun"

Silver Color - My father is one of the founders/builders of Shiva Vishnu Temple @livermoretemple
30+ years ago my dad hand-carried Lord Muruga’s Silver Vel (custom made) from India to Livermore, CA.

It stayed in our “Puja” (prayer) room at home before being installed at the Temple. One of my happiest childhood memories.

I dedicate my art to my incredible father who instilled the love of the divine, to see all faiths as equal, and my love for Lord Muruga.

Vetri Vel Murugan iku Haro Hara! Nyana Vel Murugan inu Haro Hara!

Print Details:

• partly glossy, partly matte finish
• 10 mil (0.25 mm) thick
• Slightly glossy
• Fingerprint resistant